The Future Professionals of Aroostook program, a flagship initiative of the Southern Aroostook Development Corporation, is making significant strides in its mission to empower local youth with essential life skills and career guidance. As the program marks its alpha year, organizers are thrilled to report on its progress and impact thus far.
Launched with the goal of fostering connections between eighth-grade students and adult mentors, the three-year program aims to equip participants with a comprehensive understanding of various career pathways, job opportunities, and necessary training. Key components of the curriculum include financial literacy, educational guidance, and career mentorship, along with a focus on developing essential skills such as communication, teamwork, critical thinking, accountability and organization.
The inaugural cohort of Future Professionals of Aroostook comprises 11 students from Houlton, Hodgdon and Southern Aroostook schools. Under the guidance of dedicated mentors and program leaders, these students have embarked on a transformative journey of personal and professional growth.
Josh Mclaughlin, president of SADC and co-chair of FPA, expressed his unwavering commitment to the program, stating, “I am very passionate about this program and its need.”
His enthusiasm is shared by Alison Gould, commercial sales officer at Katahdin Trust Company and a mentor within the FPA program. Gould emphasized the importance of imparting life skills to the next generation, saying, “When I heard about this program, I immediately wanted to get involved. Life skills are an integral part of becoming an adult. I love that business men and women can walk alongside a student and show them what is out there for careers in our area, have the opportunity to tour some of them, as well as being able to teach them the life skills it takes to be a successful member of the community.”
Throughout the alpha year, participants have engaged in a structured curriculum that includes presentations, group activities, mentor meetings, and visits to local businesses. They have completed the communication module. This enhancement in communication skills not only benefits participants within the FPA program but also equips them with a crucial asset for navigating various aspects of their lives. Currently, the focus is on cultivating accountability as a foundational life skill, empowering students to take ownership of their actions and decisions.
The mentorship aspect of the program has provided valuable insights into the strengths of the mentees. Gould emphasized the privilege mentors have in identifying and nurturing these strengths, stating, “By spending time with our mentees, we get to see what strengths they have that they may not even be aware of, and as mentors, we get the privilege of helping bring those strengths to life as well as instilling confidence in the students.”
As the FPA program continues to unfold, the growth and progress of its participants serve as a testament to its impact. Gould expressed confidence in the transformative potential of the program, stating, “The growth in the participants from our first meeting to now is so fun to watch, and I am confident that when they ‘graduate’ from this program in three years, we will see the difference it has made in their lives.”
As the Future Professionals of Aroostook program continues to unfold, organizers remain committed to nurturing the potential of Aroostook County’s youth and preparing them for success in an ever-evolving workforce. Through effective communication, mentorship, and a supportive learning environment, the Future Professionals of Aroostook program is empowering youth to thrive academically, professionally, and personally.
For more information about the Future Professionals of Aroostook program, please contact Johanna Johnston, Southern Aroostook Development Corporation, at 207-613-1880 or johanna@sadcaroostook.org.
